Every Bite, a Taste of
Colombian Tradition.
OUR STORY
From Ruin to Revival:
How Two Brothers Brought Hola Cafe Back to Life
On New Year's Eve of 2024, while everyone around us was celebrating, I stood in the middle of what used to be Hola Café, feeling like my world had just imploded. My uncles, who had poured their hearts into this place, watched helplessly as their dream vanished before their eyes. The previous tenants, in a blatant violation of their contract, had stripped the restaurant bare. I’m talking about everything—tables, chairs, even the kitchen sink. It was devastating, like a gut punch that left us all breathless.
But my uncles didn’t dwell on the loss for long. They saw two options: sue and wait years for some sort of payout, or roll up their sleeves and rebuild from scratch. Without hesitation, they chose the second path. They secured a loan and rallied our family and friends to help restart the café from the ground up.
At just 22, there was no way I could stand by and do nothing. My brother and I jumped in with everything we had, working for free to help our uncles climb out of debt and revive the business. It wasn’t just about saving the café—it was about keeping our family’s pride and hard work alive. We started finding new opportunities, catering events and distributing food around Oakville, slowly but steadily laying a new foundation.
I remember the day my brother and I approached our uncles with an idea. “Let us take over,” we told them. “We’ll clear the debt and bring the restaurant back to life.” We didn’t want them to carry the stress anymore; they’d already sacrificed enough. They trusted us, and on June 7, 2024, my brother and I officially took the reins.
That’s when the real work began. We poured every ounce of energy into major renovations—new furniture, a modern kitchen, and a fresh vibe that completely transformed the space. It wasn’t easy, but the community rallied behind us in ways we never imagined. Their support was everything. Without them, we wouldn’t be here today. They didn’t just appreciate our food; they valued our commitment to creating a welcoming environment and delivering quality.
Now, Hola Café is so much more than a restaurant—it’s become a hub for the neighborhood. We cater local events, stay open late for Copa America soccer matches, and always try to find new ways to connect with the people who’ve supported us. This August, we’ll even be part of Burlington’s Lakeside A La Carte at Spencer Smith Park. It’s just another step in building on what we’ve created, one plate at a time.
Looking back, those early days were some of the hardest of my life. But standing here now, seeing how far we’ve come, I wouldn’t trade it for anything. What started as a nightmare has turned into something truly special—a place where food, family, and community come together in the best possible way.
More about Hola's story on Burlington Today
¡Bienvenidos a Hola Café & Market!
Crafting Tradition, Sharing Warmth
At Hola Café & Market, our team is like family, and they’re at the heart of everything we do. Each person brings their own story, their own roots, and a shared passion for bringing Latin flavors to life. From our talented chefs who pour tradition and love into every dish, to our friendly servers who greet you like an old friend, our team works together to create not just meals, but moments.
We’re proud of our diverse backgrounds, but what truly unites us is our dedication to making you feel at home. Every plate tells a story, and every smile is part of the experience. Come meet the people behind the food, and feel the warmth that comes from our kitchen to your table.